Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax E90

On this page, we will be contrasting the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax E90, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and they are both built by Pentax. The sensor resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the E90 (10MP) is pretty close but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and E90 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizing.

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The MX-1 was manufactured 3 years later than the E90 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief overview of how the MX-1 matches up versus the E90 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Pentax Optio E90. The entire galleries are available at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Pentax E90 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Pentax MX-1 has exterior measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Pentax E90 has sizing of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") having a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax E90 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the MX-1 and the E90.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and E90 is 84 and 94 respectively.

Typically, its difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing merely by looking through technical specs. The graphic underneath should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the MX-1 and E90.

As you have seen, both of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The MX-1 featuring a bigger sensor will make achieving bokeh simpler and the Pentax MX-1 will render more detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more recent MX-1 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.